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Solutions for hair loss

We spend countless hours and dollars on styling it, coloring it and cutting it. And, as women, our hair is a part of who we are. But what do you do when it starts to thin?

“I see a lot of women who are concerned about their hair loss,“ says Virtua endocrinologist Allison Herbst, MD. She says there may be a medical reason.

“Additional symptoms like acne, unexplained weight loss or gain, or irregular menstrual periods, can help me identify an underlying problem so we can address it and let the hair grow back.”

A detailed medical history including lab results, medications, diet and overall life events may reveal a thyroid disorder, hormonal imbalance or poor nutrition.

Menopause can also trigger hair loss. This can be normal, but Dr. Herbst advises: “All women should seek a medical evaluation if they see drastic hair loss that continues to worsen or does not improve after three months.”

When hair thinning or loss has no underlying medical cause, it may be genetic. While some treatments work for a few women, most women turn to a stylist who understands thinning hair.

Denise Pereau is a stylist/consultant at vir tu´, Virtua’s spa located in the new Health and Wellness Center in Washington Township. She understands the struggles women face when they experience hair loss.

“While men may anticipate hair loss, it can have a severe impact on a woman’s self-esteem,” she says.

She suggests shorter hair styles that add body to a woman’s hair as well as colored products that add body and disguise the scalp.

When a more dramatic solution is desired, Pereau suggests integrated hair systems. “Also, synthetic wigs are great these days. They’re easy to clean, and the
open-weave cap designs provide wonderful air flow to the head.” Most importantly, they’re undetectable.